Celebrate 75 Years of Winterthur Museum, Garden & Library at a One-Day Garden Party

This spring, one of the Brandywine Valley’s most iconic destinations is marking a major milestone, and you’re invited to celebrate in style. Winterthur Museum, Garden & Library is commemorating its 75th anniversary with Field & Fête: Winterthur Celebrates 75 Years, a one-day garden party filled with music, history, and unforgettable experiences. 

Taking place on Saturday, May 16, 2026, this elegant celebration transforms the estate into a lively gathering of vintage charm, seasonal beauty, and timeless tradition. 

A Garden Party Like No Other  

Set across Winterthur’s breathtaking grounds, Field & Fête blends classic garden party elegance with lively entertainment and immersive experiences. 

Guests can expect:  

• A 20-piece big band performing throughout the day 
• A charming parade down Garden Lane 
• A curated display of vintage cars and Rolls-Royces 
• Picnicking in scenic meadows near Azalea Woods 

Whether you’re dancing to live music, strolling through blooming gardens, or simply soaking in the atmosphere, the event offers a unique way to experience Winterthur at its most vibrant. 

Music, Movement & Vintage Style 

At the heart of the celebration is the Unforgettable Big Band, performing a mix of classics spanning decades, from 1950s favorites to modern crowd-pleasers. A special performance by BlueBallRoom Dance Studio adds to the festive energy before the Chapters of Winterthur Parade takes center stage. Featuring estate vehicles, antique cars, tractors, and even the Delaware State Police Mounted Patrol, the parade is a nostalgic nod to the estate’s rich history.  

On the Conservatory Lawn, guests can explore a stunning collection of vintage automobiles, including Rolls-Royces and Bentleys that reflect the du Pont family’s legacy of craftsmanship and design. 

Elevated Picnic Fare & Seasonal Flavors 

This isn’t your average picnic. Guests can bring their own setup or indulge in a curated menu of upscale bites and seasonal favorites. 

Expect offerings like: 

• Lobster bao buns and salmon rillettes 
• French-inspired charcuterie 
• Wagyu beef sliders and grilled specialties 
• Rhubarb miso-glazed shrimp and herb-marinated chicken 

For dessert, don’t miss beautifully layered chocolate strawberry treats or small-batch ice cream created just for the event, including the return of the beloved Winterthur Swiss Avalanche flavor. 

Raise a glass at the sparkling wine bar or sip on signature cocktails like the H.F. du Pont 75, a celebratory twist on a classic French 75. 

Explore Winterthur in Full Bloom  

Beyond the festivities, guests are invited to explore the gardens at their spring peak. From azaleas and rhododendrons to woodland blooms and the ever-popular Peony Garden, May is one of the most beautiful times to visit. 

Additional experiences include:  

• Guided garden walks 
• Self-guided and guided house tours 
• A special Library Open House 
• Live fashion illustration and bouquet-making experiences  

It’s a full day of discovery, creativity, and seasonal beauty.

Go Behind the Scenes: Secret Spaces Tour 

For those looking for something truly special, the Secret Spaces Tour offers rare behind-the-scenes access to areas that are not typically open to the public. 

This limited experience includes: 

• Hidden rooms and architectural spaces 
• Textile and needlework storage 
• Floral design workspaces 
• A sparkling toast overlooking the Reflecting Pool 

Available May 15 and May 17, this exclusive add-on is a must for design lovers and history enthusiasts. 

Be Part of a Milestone Celebration  

For 75 years, Winterthur has inspired visitors through its gardens, collections, and commitment to preserving American history. Field & Fête is more than a celebration; it’s a tribute to that legacy and an invitation to experience it firsthand. 

Pack a picnic, gather your friends, and spend the day immersed in one of the most beautiful and historic settings in the Brandywine Valley.